Mapping the Lake Eyre Basin’s rich Aboriginal history

The rich history of the Lake Eyre Basin is being celebrated with a mapping project showing Aboriginal stories, songlines, trade routes, and language groups.

Minister for Water Resources David Littleproud said the project produced a truly valuable document.

 

“The map will help governments and Aboriginal communities work together,” Minister Littleproud said.

 

“The ‘Aboriginal Way’ map marks out traditional lands and significant sites to Aboriginal people.

 

“I would like to thank the committee members for their work to bring the map to life.”

 

Minister for Indigenous Affairs Nigel Scullion said the project had brought Aboriginal people together to help protect their cultures and identities.

 

“Aboriginal people have shared many thousands of years of history and practice in developing this important resource,” Minister Scullion said.

 

“The Commonwealth Government is committed to working in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians and I congratulate everyone involved in this important project that will help all Australians understand the connection to country for local Aboriginal people.

 

“I hope the map will inspire people to learn the traditions of the Basin and help them do so respectfully.”

 

The ‘Aboriginal Way’ map was first proposed at the Aboriginal Forum at Mount Serle, SA in 2006.

 

The Aboriginal Map Steering Committee provided cultural advice to the Lake Eyre Basin Community Advisory Committee and managed consultations.

 

The Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies will be responsible for the long-term management of the ‘Aboriginal Way’ map.

 

Further information on the ‘Aboriginal Way’ map can be found at www.lakeeyrebasin.gov.au.